Police team heads to Kwahu-Abene amidst fears of chieftaincy clash

A team of police personnel have been dispatched to Kwahu-Abene in the Eastern Region to prevent possible clashes by two rival chieftaincy factions.

As the people mark the Akwasidae Festival Sunday, police suspect that a recent enstoolment of another chief after Professor Agyeman Badu-Akorsa was installed a few weeks ago could spark violence.

Because chiefs play a key role in traditional festivals, there are fears the installation of another chief by rival kingmakers could jeorpardise the entire festivities and subsequently lead to physical violence.

Since the demise of late Paramount Chief of Kwahuman traditional area, Daasebre Akuamoah Boateng III, in September 2014, Kingmakers have failed to enstool a successor due to disagreements over the rightful heir.

About 15 candidates were contesting for the stool, a situation which led to several clashes and destruction of properties.

However, Regional Police Public Relations Officer ASP Ebenezer Tetteh, told Joy News they have been monitoring the situation and they are on high alert to avert any disturbances especially in the wake of the Akwasidae celebration.

“We are going to ensure that our men who have been stationed there maintain the peace in the area,” he adds.

He said the two factions have been impressed upon to keep the peace.

“So far they have not breached the peace as we speak now. The place is calm,” ASP Tetteh said.